This time a year ago, student Izzi Morris, 17, was adamant she would never consider business as a career.

"My impression was that it was too stressful, too boring, too cut- throat and, frankly, there were just too many men in black suits," she told those attending last night's Fairfax Media NZ Business Hall of Fame awards dinner in Auckland.

Morris was chosen from 2900 Lion Foundation Young Enterprise students nationwide as its student ambassador to deliver a speech at the black-tie event.

She said it was only because of a passionate teacher that she had become involved in the Lion Foundation Young Enterprise Scheme.

Under the YES programme students had to create a real business, negotiate with suppliers, create a website, sell stock, and complete budgets and cashflows.

"That girl who refused to ever be involved in commerce a year ago is now standing here talking to the most influential businesspeople in the country, going on to study commerce at university and has a huge passion and drive for a career in business," the Tauranga Girls' College student said. "That is the power of an experience."

Her team's business, Tiger Enterprise, produced Tiger Multi Bags, reusable, machine-washable lunch bags and toiletry bags that come in about 20 different designs.

Six laureates were inducted into the business hall of fame last night.

The selection criteria included contributions to business and philanthropy.

z 2012 LAUREATES: Graeme Lowe, Bill Gallagher Sr (1911-1990), Sir Graeme Douglas, Sir Patrick Higgins, Thomas Macarthy (1833-1912), Mary Jane Milne (1840-1921).

- © Fairfax NZ News